Buttler’s inclusion is being considered to have been influenced by his consistent performances in the IPL. Playing for the Rajasthan Royals, Buttler has piled up five consecutive fifties in this year’s IPL as an opener to single-handedly win games for the franchise. Official: We have named a 12-man squad for our first Test against Pakistan.

When the England squad for the 1st Test against Pakistan Test was announced on Tuesday, Buttler and Dom Bess were new inclusions in the side. The announcement was made after new chief selector Ed Smith met with national head Trevor Bayliss, fellow selectors Mick Newell and Angus Fraserand the English Test Captain Joe Root.

Buttler’s inclusion practically means that the keeper would miss RR’s next game against RCB on May 19 and the following games thereof. Other English players who will accompany Buttler on the flight back to England are Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes and Mark Wood (already back).

The Lancashire batsman makes a return to the national Test side after 18 months. However, with Jonny Bairstow already in the side, Buttler is not expected to don the keeping gloves. He would probably bat at No 6 or 7 in the lineup.